History of Draft Day in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: April 4, 2025

In Draft Day, Sonny Weaver Jr., the general manager of the Cleveland Browns, faces immense pressure to revive his team's fortunes during the NFL Draft. He makes a bold move, trading up to acquire the coveted number one pick. However, as Draft Day unfolds, Sonny grapples with the consequences of his decision, the expectations of the team owner, the opinions of his coach, and personal conflicts, all while trying to secure the best possible future for the Browns. He navigates trades, scrutinizes prospects, and ultimately makes a calculated choice that could define his career and the fate of the team.

2012: Screenplay Tops Black List

In 2012, the screenplay for Draft Day was the number one script on the Black List survey of unproduced screenplays.

May 8, 2013: Filming Begins

Filming for Draft Day began on May 8, 2013.

December 23, 2013: Poster and Trailer Released

On December 23, 2013, the first poster and trailer for the film Draft Day were released.

April 7, 2014: Draft Day Film Premiere

On April 7, 2014, Draft Day premiered in Los Angeles.

April 11, 2014: Draft Day US Release

On April 11, 2014, Draft Day was released in the United States.

June 27, 2014: Vietnam Release

On June 27, 2014, Draft Day was released in Vietnam.

2014: Cleveland Browns Draft Johnny Manziel

During the 2014 NFL draft, the Cleveland Browns traded up to select quarterback Johnny Manziel with the 22nd pick. They also traded away their fourth pick and later traded up to the eighth pick to draft Justin Gilbert.

2015: Browns trade away 2015 first round pick

During the 2014 NFL draft, the Cleveland Browns traded away their fourth pick to the Buffalo Bills for their ninth pick, as well as their 2015 first round pick.

2022: Ivan Reitman's Death

In 2022, Draft Day director Ivan Reitman passed away.

2023: Jim Brown's Death

In 2023, Jim Brown, who had an acting role in Draft Day, passed away.

January 2024: Draft Day TV Adaptation Announced

In January 2024, it was announced that SpringHill Company and Lionsgate Television would be adapting Draft Day for television, shifting the focus to the NBA draft.